United Kingdom — Residency: Processing Times

Key facts

• Skilled Worker and Global Talent: 3 weeks for applications outside the UK and 8 weeks for applications inside the UK.
• Times start only after you have applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents.
• You will be contacted if an application will take longer, for example because documents need verifying, or an interview or criminal conviction is involved.
• Times differ if you paid for a faster decision; inside-UK times count UK working days.

Steps

1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Choose a Visa or Residence Permit — The individual must research and determine their eligibility for a specific visa or residence permit based on their circumstances, such as work, study, or family ties.
2. Step 2: Gather Required Documents — The individual must collect and prepare all necessary documents, including proof of identity, income, and qualifications, as well as any additional documentation required for their specific visa or residence permit.
3. Step 3: Submit the Application — The individual must submit their application, either online or through a paper application, and pay the relevant application fee.
4. Step 4: Wait for Processing — The individual must wait for their application to be processed, which can take several months to several years, depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the relevant UK authority.

Timelines

• Skilled Worker, outside UK: 3 weeks
• Skilled Worker, inside UK: 8 weeks